Opening Concert – Schubert and the Art of Longing

For over half a century, Philippe Herreweghe and his Collegium Vocale Gent have been delivering moments of musical transcendence to the world of choral music. Their unwavering pursuit of excellence and vibrant sonic force distinguish this musical partnership. It only seemed fitting, therefore, to kick off the Festival with this exceptional ensemble, especially given that this year’s programme revolves around the topic of “Transformation” – the relentless pursuit of evolution and the sublime. It is the quest for perfection that propels a life immersed in an ever-creative process, enabling the transmission of harmony, beauty, and emotion. What better way to articulate this passion than through the compositions of Schubert? In his brief yet intense life, Schubert demonstrated a remarkable ability to refine the musical forms handed down by his predecessors. Whether in his masses, where he proved himself a worthy successor to masters like Haydn and Mozart, or in his symphonies, where he managed to unleash expressive power while still retaining ties to the formal constraints of the 18th century, Schubert played a crucial role in the Sturm und Drang movement. The Symphony No. 7 stands as a radiant example from that era for two reasons: it presents a stark contrast between a tumultuous first movement and a serenely clear second movement. Yet, the symphony also came to life in a creative process where Schubert temporarily set the work aside, feeling unable to complete it in one continuous burst – a testament to an unquenchable thirst for perfection!